The three patents are related to implants for the thoracic and
lumbar spine, a plate and screw system for the cervical spine and a
tissue retractor.

"We are pleased by the jury's verdict," said Doug King, senior
vice-president and president of Medtronic Spinal. "The decision
confirms our leadership in spinal implant technology, and we remain
committed to vigorously defending our intellectual property."

NuVasive did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

Medtronic shares added 18 cents to $35 in aftermarket trading
after rising 75 cents, or 2.2 percent, to $34.82 during the regular
session.

Shares of NuVasive slipped 33 cents to $21.21 during regular
trading. They were unchanged in extended trading.

Medical device maker Medtronic Inc. said Tuesday that a federal jury has ordered rival NuVasive to pay $101.2 million in damages for infringing on three of Medtronic's patents.Medtronic sued NuVasive in 2008, claiming that several of the spinal implant maker's products infringe on older patents...